Washington  - A key gauge of US economic performance fell in February after rising slightly in the previous month, according to a private research group on Thursday.

The New York-based Conference Board's index of 10 leading economic indicators slid 0.4 per cent on unemployment claims, weak stock markets and consumer confidence.

The increase in January was revised downward to 0.1 per cent, while December was revised to a decline of 0.1 per cent from an earlier increase.

The index, which is designed to measure the economy's performance over the coming three to six months, has fallen 2.1 per cent since August. (dpa)